The benefits of Tackers programs
Our sailing programs are designed to develop confident, capable (and happy!) kids. Participants will:
- Pick up practical sailing skills: From rigging to steering, stopping safely, and navigating different wind directions.
- Build independence: Gain confidence sailing their own boat and making decisions on the water.
- Improve coordination & fitness: As their skills grow, children will learn to improve boat balance and control, and build overall fitness.
- Develop resilience: Try new challenges and problem-solve (with big tactical-thinking boosts!)
- Make new friends: Share boats and get stuck into games in a fun, supportive environment.
- Enjoy the outdoors: Fresh air and sunshine make our Tackers program the perfect holiday activity.
A guide to our kids' sailing program
A run-down of our Tackers and Little Tackers programs:
3 days, from 9 am-3 pm
Three days of structured coaching, water time, and supervised care.
Real skill progression
Children follow the Tackers pathway, moving from beginner-friendly basics (like rigging the boat and sailing across the wind), through to skills like changing direction, tacking and gybing.
Safety first
All sessions are held by professional, enthusiastic instructors who make safety their priority. Also, the sailing area is contained within the marina. Equipment is regularly checked, safety boats are always around, and we make sure children feel comfortable and confident.
Fun-focused learning
Games, challenges, and on-water activities keep sessions engaging and non-competitive.
Quality location
Our Tackers-based program is run at the well-equipped Royal Yacht Club of Victoria within calm waterways ideal for young learners.
Sailing holiday program FAQs
Why teach kids to sail while they’re young?
Like with any sport, developing an early interest in sailing usually means kids will stick with it for longer. Our Tackers programs help children to develop lifelong confidence and water awareness.
Sailing blends physical skill with quick thinking, and strengthens core skills like coordination, teamwork and independence. Many families find that sailing becomes more than a school holiday activity – it’s a lasting passion that supports a healthy, active lifestyle.
What will be taught at the Australian Sports Camp sailing program?
Our kids' sailing program is structured around age and ability.
The Little Tackers program for first-time sailors covers the basics of sailing in a safe environment. Children will get an understanding of boat parts and safety on the water. They’ll also try their hand at sailing across the wind, steering and stopping.
Children who already know the fundamentals will start sailing in a boat independently. They’ll learn to sail upwind and downwind, refine their tacking and gybing skills, and focus on boat balance, control, and capsize recovery.
Does my child need sailing experience or their own equipment?
Our sailing program is designed for beginners. Children don’t need any experience – just a willingness to have a go.
We provide all boats, life jackets, and safety equipment. Simply pack swimmers, comfortable clothes, enclosed shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a nut-free lunch. Our instructors will take care of the rest.